Tinubu orders investigation into Ondo military jet crash

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on Monday.

The President, who expressed sadness over the incident, also commiserated with the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members on board the aircraft, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the country.

“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” the President said.

Tinubu disclosed that the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident, adding that he had directed the Air Force to immediately begin a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences.

He also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating a search-and-rescue operation immediately after the accident.

The President further praised the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site.

Tinubu prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died in the incident and asked God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.